Key Factors Shaping GCC Market Forecasts for 2026

Sub-Saharan African countries represent around one-third of the total, followed by Latin America and the Middle East (the latter two together representing over 40% of the overall). Including, there has been an (from 90.3 in 2000-04 to 92.6 and 92.3 in the five years pre- and post-pandemic ).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

and ranked greater than others; UAE is up more than 45 places in 2024 compared to 2000 while Qatar climbed up 24; both Saudi Arabia and Oman rose 17 ranks during the duration. The caught or even worse off nations are some parts of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa where structural change has stalled.

reveals a significant boost in typical EDI scores from 86.8 in 2000-04 to 92.6 in 2020-24, (up more than 10 points in the initial duration versus 2020-24). with UAE outshining in the trade sub-index (supported by current bilateral trade agreements & non-oil exports push). vs its pre-pandemic reading (partially offered the rise in medium & state-of-the-art production information).

ANSR July GCC PRs 50DR+

Its diversification metrics have actually stagnated, revealing the least improvement in between the initial (2000-04) and last (2020-24) reference periods., in spite of the headwinds of OPEC+ production cuts. A robust non-hydrocarbon expansion was supported by the GCC's robust domestic demand (supported by a strong project pipeline and execution) and strong services sector performance.

Navigating GCC Equity Market Trends for 2026

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia clocked in a boost in non-hydrocarbon revenue, "primarily showing non-hydrocarbon tax base expansions and profits collection effectiveness enhancements", according to the IMF. In the existing geopolitical environment identified by intensifying, it remains in the very best interests of commodity dependent nations to diversify its export base, exports and trade partners.